Implementation of alcohol protective behavioural strategies among university students: APSAD 2024 Conference 30 October-2 November 2024 National Convention Centre, Canberra

Amanda GEORGE, Byron L. Zamboanga, Tricia BROWN

Research output: Contribution to conference (non-published works)Abstractpeer-review

Abstract

Introduction: University students are a vulnerable group for alcohol consumption/negative alcohol consequences. Protective Behavioural Strategies (PBS) when drinking can help reduce alcohol consumption and associated problems, although most literature regarding PBS is from the United States [1]. Additionally, many university students consume alcohol in social situations, including drinking games (DG) [2]. The utility of PBS in such settings is questionable [3]. Examining PBS among Australian students, including applicability in high-risk settings, is required.

Methods: Data from 353 university students aged 18–25 years (Mage = 19.9 years, female = 74%; living on campus = 25%) in Australia who had consumed alcohol in the past year was obtained from an online survey. Measures included the Protective Behavioral Strategies Scale-15 [4] which assesses Manner of Drinking, Stopping/Limiting Drinking and Serious Harm Reduction. Demographics, alcohol consumption/consequences, motives for drinking and DGs participation were also measured.

Results: The most frequently endorsed form of PBS was Serious Harm Reduction (e.g., using a designated driver, as reported always used by 63% of the sample). Most (74%) had played a DG in the prior year. Stopping/Limiting Drinking and Manner of Drinking PBS predicted less alcohol consumption (controlling for demographics, motives for drinking and DG participation). Unexpectedly, no PBS subscale predicted negative alcohol consequences in the prior 30 days. Analysis of open-ended comments highlighted the challenges of PBS implementation for high-risk settings.

Discussions and Conclusions: PBS can be effective for reducing risky alcohol use and negative consequences from drinking, although their implementation in university settings can be challenging. The necessity of considering motives for drinking and strategies for implementation of PBS in high-risk settings is highlighted.

Disclosure of Interest Statement: None.
Original languageEnglish
PagesS7-S158
Number of pages1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2024
EventAustralasian Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs Conference -
Duration: 31 Oct 20243 Nov 2024
https://www.apsadconference.com.au/

Conference

ConferenceAustralasian Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs Conference
Abbreviated titleAPSAD 2024
Period31/10/243/11/24
Internet address

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